Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain has been ruled out of his side's clash with Arsenal in the Champions League, according to reports.

The Argentine, who came close to joining the Gunners from Real Madrid in the summer before moving to Naples, started on the bench for his team's victory over Genoa at the weekend.

While he was expected to start against his former admirers, reports have emerged in the Italian media that insist that Higuain will play no part at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.

Defender Raul Albiol has also been listed as doubtful for the Italian outfit, who beat Borussia Dortmund in their last European outing.

These reports have not yet been confirmed by the club.